Pak has a history with terrorism, it’s no secret: Bilawal Bhutto
#News Bureau May 3,2025
Why are the ministers and leaders of Pakistan now admitting that Pakistan nurtures terrorism? Know what Bilawal Bhutto has admitted after the Pakistani Defence Minister.
After Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has now made a sensational revelation regarding Pakistan’s links to terrorist organizations. In an interview with Sky News, Bhutto openly acknowledged that Pakistan has a historical connection with such groups. He stated, “I don’t think it’s a secret that Pakistan has a history with terrorist organizations.”
Bhutto’s admission follows Khawaja Asif’s recent remarks, where the Defence Minister also conceded Pakistan’s past involvement in supporting and funding terrorist outfits. These statements are significant in the context of India-Pakistan relations, regional stability, and the broader global fight against terrorism.
Bilawal Bhutto’s statement comes about 10 days after the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. 26 people lost their lives in the attack. The terror attack was carried out by a terrorist organization like Lashkar-e-Taiba linked to Pakistan. This attack further aggravated the already tense relations between India and Pakistan. India took tough steps in response, including canceling short-term visas for Pakistani citizens and suspending the SAARC visa exemption scheme.
Bilawal said in his interview, ‘Pakistan has also suffered from terrorism. We have faced waves of extremism, but due to this we learned lessons and made internal reforms.’ He also claimed that terrorism is no longer a part of Pakistan’s policy. However, his statement raises many questions, especially when Pakistan has been constantly accused of sheltering and supporting terrorist organizations.
It is an unusual and remarkable development that senior leaders like Bilawal Bhutto and Khawaja Asif have admitted to Pakistan’s historical links with terror groups. Earlier, Pakistan had rejected such allegations and blamed India.
This confession is seen by some as a result of international pressure, especially after organisations like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) have been constantly monitoring Pakistan to stop terror financing.
However, Bilawal’s claim that Pakistan has made ‘reforms’ and no longer supports terrorism is under suspicion. India and other countries have repeatedly presented evidence that organisations like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed operate from Pakistani soil.
Bilawal’s statement reflects a state of confusion in Pakistan’s internal and foreign policy. On one hand, it appears to be an attempt to ease tensions with India and improve Pakistan’s global image. On the other, it underscores the continued influence of Pakistan’s military and intelligence agency, the ISI, which have long been accused of supporting terrorist groups.
The remark may also be part of Bilawal’s strategy to bolster his own political image. As a young leader, he aims to present himself as reformist and progressive. However, this admission could create internal challenges for both his party and the government. India has responded cautiously to his comments.
Following the Pahalgam attack, India reiterated its ‘zero tolerance’ stance on terrorism. Many in India see Bilawal’s statement as further proof of Pakistan’s duplicity—acknowledging terrorism while avoiding concrete action. India continues its strategy to isolate Pakistan on the issue of terrorism at global platforms, and Bilawal’s admission bolsters India’s position. However, New Delhi remains wary, suspecting that this confession may be more tactical than a sign of real change.
The statement is significant for South Asia’s regional security. Pakistan’s historical links with terrorist organizations have fueled instability in the region. Bilawal’s assertion that Pakistan has reformed will now be closely scrutinized by the international community, including the UN and the US, to see if Pakistan takes genuine steps against terrorism.
This development could also influence the fragile prospects for India-Pakistan peace talks. While Bilawal has previously expressed a desire for peace, he has also warned of readiness for conflict if provoked—highlighting the deep trust deficit between the two nations.
In India, Bilawal’s statement sparked sharp reactions. Many on social media branded it Pakistan’s ‘double game,’ acknowledging terrorism but shirking responsibility. Some analysts called it a clear exposure of the Pakistani military and ISI’s long-standing use of terrorism as a strategic tool.
The comments have stirred controversy within Pakistan as well. Some view them as a bold step toward reform, while others see them as damaging to the country’s image. Bilawal’s claim that terrorism is no longer part of Pakistan’s policy is likely to ignite debate within its military and political circles.
Bilawal’s admission that “Pakistan has a past with terrorism—it’s no secret” is a significant and rare confession. It raises serious questions about Pakistan’s policies and reinforces its accountability to both India and the global community. However, the statement alone does not guarantee meaningful action against terrorism.
For India, this is an opportunity to intensify pressure on Pakistan at international forums and push for decisive action. Meanwhile, Pakistan now faces the challenge of proving its claims with credible steps to dismantle terrorist networks.
